Sandton: Assistant Tax Specialist posted by The Focus Group

Role Purpose

The Assistant Tax Specialist will support the Tax Department in meeting tax compliance, reporting, and advisory requirements for multiple business entities within the group. The role involves working across direct and indirect taxes, providing technical input, and ensuring adherence to South African tax legislation and accounting standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and resolve tax administration matters across South African entities.

• Assist in providing advice on indirect tax issues (including VAT and PAYE).

• Review VAT packs and related documentation for accuracy and compliance.

• Research and analyze tax implications of business transactions to ensure compliance with the Income Tax Act, VAT Act, and Tax Administration Act.

• Prepare provisional, final income, and deferred tax computations for multiple group companies.

• Prepare and submit tax returns, handle SARS queries, and maintain a professional working relationship with tax authorities.

• Support the preparation of tax accounting and reporting under IFRS, including group-wide tax entries and reconciliations.

• Compile, analyze, and interpret financial data for management reporting, dashboards, and schedules.

• Address tax-related queries from internal stakeholders.

• Participate in ad-hoc tax projects and initiatives supporting the Tax function.

Education and Experience

• BCom in Accounting or equivalent qualification (essential).

• Postgraduate studies in Taxation (advantageous).

• 34 years experience in a tax environment, preferably within a corporate or consulting firm.

• Strong knowledge of South African tax legislation and IFRS.

• Advanced Excel proficiency.

Skills and Competencies

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and interpretation skills.

• Excellent verbal and written communication abilities.

• High attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to manage pressure and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

• Effective both as an individual contributor and as part of a team.

• Self-motivated with good organizational and time-management skills.

• Proactive approach to learning and taking ownership of new tasks or projects.

Employment Equity

Applications from all suitably qualified candidates are welcome. Preference may be given to candidates from designated groups in line with Employment Equity objectives.